Wednesday, 13 February 2013

John Dwyer, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire is supporting Cheshire Constabulary′s ‘Speak Out′ domestic abuse campaign and the Home Office ‘This Is Abuse′ campaign which are set to launch today.

John Dwyer said, "being a victim of abuse can be a traumatic and life changing experience, no matter what age you are. I praise the work that Cheshire Constabulary and the Home Office are doing to raise the awareness of domestic abuse in relationships and hope it encourages more young people to come forward."

John will appoint a Youth Ambassador who will work to deliver key messages to the young people of Cheshire on issues such as domestic abuse and internet safety, as well as providing them with a point of contact to have their say about policing.

The Home Office ‘This is Abuse′ campaign is targeting domestic abuse in teenage relationships, and is urging young people to change their lives and put a stop to either being in an abusive relationship or stop being a perpetrator of abuse. It encourages teenagers to re-think their views of violence, abuse or controlling behaviour in relationships and directs them to places for help and advice.

John added, "young people are a very important part of our communities. I hope that both of the campaigns that are running will encourage young people to report violent partners or recognise that some of their behaviour towards their partner is abusive."